Cockermouth School
Grease is the Word...
The curtains have closed on our spectacular school production of Grease, but the memories of this high-energy, toe-tapping show live on! Our talented students worked tirelessly to bring the classic musical to life and their efforts certainly paid off, with their outstanding performances that had audiences singing along.
From the moment the T-Birds and Pink Ladies took the stage, the cast delivered incredible vocals, sharp choreography and fantastic acting that transported the audience straight back to Rydell High. With iconic numbers like Summer Nights, Greased Lightning and You're the One That I Want - the energy in the room was electric.
We were also thrilled to welcome students from eight local primary schools for an exclusive matinee performance, giving them a taste of the magic our school has to offer. Their excitement and enthusiasm added to the atmosphere, and we hope it inspired some future stars to take to the stage.
Of course, a production of this scale wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of so many people behind the scenes. A huge thank you to the backstage crew for ensuring smooth scene transitions and the lighting and sound team for adding that extra magic. Special appreciation goes to the hardworking staff who guided and supported the students every step of the way, and to the talented school orchestra, whose live music brought the show to life.
Finally, to our incredible cast, whose passion and commitment made this production truly special. We would like to thank you for your hard work, enthusiasm and for giving us a show to remember - keep shining like the stars you are!
To those who attended, thank you for your support, we hope you had as much fun watching as we did performing. Grease truly is the word at Cockermouth School.
Oxford Success
We are thrilled to announce that five of our talented Year 13 students have received offers to study at the prestigious University of Oxford! Their hard work, resilience and passion for learning have truly paid off.
Our ongoing partnership with The Queen’s College, Oxford, has played a key role in supporting students through workshops, tutorials and visits to the university’s Open Day.
A huge congratulations to our offer-holders, we wish all our Year 13 students the best as they prepare for their summer exams.
For those inspired to pursue top universities, speak to your teachers or contact Mrs Milledge or Dr Henley for guidance.
Year 5 Arts & Careers Event – A Fantastic Experience!
We recently welcomed Year 5 students from local primary schools for an exciting Arts and Careers event, giving them a taste of our vibrant school community.
Exploring the Arts:
• Art: Clay work inspired by famous artists.
• Drama: Interactive theatre performances.
• Music: Hands-on samba drumming session.
Careers Inspiration:
Students met professionals from organisations in the area, gaining insight into various industries. A special highlight was hearing from former Cockermouth School students now thriving in their careers.
An inspirational day — we can’t wait to welcome these students back in the future!
Sri Lanka Trip
In March, seventeen lucky Year 9 students embarked on a week-long adventure to Sri Lanka, thanks to fundingsecuredbyDrSucklingthrough the Turing Scheme. The trip aimed to immersestudentsinadifferentculture, introducing them to Sri Lankan education,societyandenvironment.
Based in Kurunegala, students attended Royal International School (RIS), where they joined lessons in Sinhalese,traditionaldance,andSTEM, played local sports and exchanged cultural insights with Sri Lankan students.
Beyond the classroom, they explored Sri Lanka’s rich history and wildlife, including:
•TheRoyalCaveTempleinDambulla
•AjungletrekatForestSchool
•ClimbingYapahuwarockfortress
• A jeep safari, spotting wild elephants upclose
The trip ended with a heartwarming farewellfeaturingtraditionalSriLankan performances, Wordsworth poetry readings and a cultural exchange of gifts. Strong friendships were formed and students returned with newfound confidence and unforgettable memories.
Sports Tour 2025
Cockermouth School celebrated 20 years of sports tours with a two-day Manchester trip for 48 students. The journey began with team-building exercises at Cockermouth School, followed by spirited friendly games at Marple Hall School—a longstanding partner. After receiving praise for their behaviour at Premier Inn Central, the students enjoyed a netball match between Manchester Thunder and Nottingham Forest, highlighted by a surprise appearance from Olympic legend Usain Bolt. Saturday included a competitive visit to Dino Falls Adventure Golf, leisure time at Trafford Centre, and a thrilling football match at The Brick Stadium between Wigan Ath Barnsley FC. The tour showcased teamwork, respect, and lasting memories, underscoring the school’s commitment to developing connections through sport.
Outstanding A Level Results at Cockermouth School!
We are delighted to share our verified A Level results, confirming outstanding achievements by our students. Their success has placed us among the top-performing schools nationally and regionally.
Key Highlights:
A Level Performance: Top 10% nationally, highest in Cumberland (B grade, 38.8 points). Applied General Qualifications: Top 5% nationally, highest in Cumberland (Distinction+, 40.03 points).
These results reflect the dedication of our students, staff and school community. We remain committed to providing an exceptional learning experience in our Sixth Form. Well done to all!
Cockermouth Students Shine in British Physics Olympiad
Four Year 13 students took on the British Physics Olympiad Round 1, competing against 3,777 students from 550 schools nationwide. Their outstanding results:
• Alex T-J – Top Gold (top 4%), earning a place in Round 2
• Danny W – Gold
• Samuel G – Silver
• James R – Bronze Level 1
A huge congratulations to all four students for their phenomenal achievements! Year 12s are now being encouraged to continue the school’s growing tradition of physics excellence.
Cockermouth Dancers Dazzle at Dance Live
On Thursday 27 February, a team of 86 students and staff travelled to Blackpool’s Winter Gardens to compete in the Dance Live — and they delivered a truly unforgettable performance which saw them take the win!
From cheering on other schools to closing the show on one of Europe’s largest stages, our students displayed passion, professionalism and breathtaking storytelling. Their powerful piece, set in 1881 London, depicted the struggles of young matchstick factory workers, highlighting one girl’s fight for justice in one of Britain’s first industrial strikes.
The judges were blown away, praising their synchronisation, strong dance work and emotional storytelling. We couldn’t be more proud of their dedication and talent — congratulations to our incredible Dance Live team!
Over £600 raised for Comic Relief!
Cockermouth School has successfully raised over £600 for Comic Relief, thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of our students, staff and wider community!
Our fundraising efforts included:
• A JustGiving page, where donations quickly added up.
• Selling red noses, with students and staff showing their support in style.
• The Sixth Form Bike Challenge, where our determined sixth formers pedalled hard to boost donations.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, your support will make a difference!
Cockermouth School PTA: Supporting Students
The Cockermouth School PTA is a Registered Charity led by parents and carers, dedicated to fundraising for the benefit of students. By building strong connections within the school and wider community, the PTA helps provide valuable opportunities for all. Last year, the PTA raised over £3,500, with every penny supporting our students.
All parents and carers automatically become members when their child joins Cockermouth School and are encouraged to get involved. The next meeting is on 21 May at 7pm at The Swan Inn (CA13 9PH) - everyone is welcome!
Another way to support our school is to scan the QR code to raise funds while shopping online through easy fundraising.
Upcoming Events
Thu 24 April: Year 5 Science Event
Thu 24 April: Year 11 Celebration Event
Wed 30 April: Year 10 Parents’ Evening
Wed 30 April: Year 11 Speaking Tests
Tues 6 May: Year 13 Celebration Event
Thu 8 May - Fri 20 June: GCSE & A Level exams
Fri 13 - Tues 17 June: GCSE French Trip
Mon 16 June: Year 8 Celebration Event
Wed 18 June: Year 12 Employability Day
Mon 23 - Tues 24 June: Sixth Form Induction Days
Thu 26 June: Year 9 Celebration Event
Fri 27 June: Bingo Night in School Hall
Mon 30 June: Year 12 Celebration Event
Tue 1-Wed 2 July: Year 6 Intake Days
Thu 3 July - Cockermouth School Sports Day
Mon 7 July: Year 5 PE Event and Tour
Mon 7 - Fri 11 July: Year 10 Work Experience
Tue 8 July: Arts Summer Showcase
Thu 10 July: Year 7 Celebration Event
Fri 11 July: Year 5 Humanities Event
Fri 11 July: Blues Night
Mon 14 July: Year 10 Celebration Event
Mon 14 - Fri 18 July: Year 12 Work Experience
Wed 16 - Fri 18 July: Enrichment Activities
Thu 17 July: Year 10 World of Work Day
Fri 18 July: End of Term